Apple and Google have begun a beta rollout of end to end encrypted RCS messaging, starting with iPhone users on iOS 26.5 and Android users on the latest Google Messages. iPhone to Android RCS conversations will be encrypted by default using the MLS protocol, with a lock icon confirming protection. Availability depends on supported carriers and expands gradually.
After years of urging Apple to adopt RCS standards, Google says cross platform messaging between Android and iPhone users can now be end to end encrypted. The change aims to make conversations more seamless and safer, narrowing a major security and interoperability gap that persisted as both companies used different messaging systems.
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Apple has released iOS 26.5 for iPhone users, adding end to end encrypted RCS messaging support in beta alongside smarter Apple Maps recommendations. The update also introduces a new dynamic Pride wallpaper and includes additional behind the scenes improvements. Apple appears to be tightening privacy and personalization ahead of its expected iOS 27 reveal at WWDC 2026 next month.
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